The Turntable: Reel People
2008-12-05
Inspired by UK artists like Blaze, restless soul, Masters At Work and Bugz in The Attic British DJ and producer Oli Lazarus hooked up with engineer Tom Davidson in 2000 and the duo started recording as Reel People.
The following year, Lazarus left Flying Records, the label he managed, and started his own label, Papa Records. Using Papa as a platform, Lazarus and Davidson released some of their early Reel People recordings, most notably the single “Spiritual,” featuring Nathan Haines. The successful release prompted Lazarus to define the Papa Records sound as the soulful sounds that inspired him as a DJ.
Over the last six years, as the label has grown, so has Reel People. A new iteration of the band, led by Lazarus’ collaboration with Mike Patto resulted in the 2003 release of the group’s debut album, “Second Guess.” The project was hugely successful, and led to the band being signed by Columbia Records, Japan. They have since opened for Herbie Hancock at the Tokyo Jazz Festival, and rocked famous overseas spots like Ronnie Scotts in London and the Blue Note in Japan.
Reminiscent of Soul II Soul, Reel People's collective groove ranges from soul to club vibes. Listen in as we sample their latest project, "Seven Ways to Wonder."
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Your Hosts for "The Turntable"
Charles White
Charles White is an audiophile and owner of PM Sounds, a company that develops branded compilations for a range of high profile clients. He also produces Free Soul Radio, the eclectic soul Internet radio station streamed through Pmsounds.com and Live365.com. Free Soul Radio is currently ranked 16th out of the 367 R&B/Urban stations streamed through Live365.
Fathom DJ
As one Chicago's hottest DJs, Fathom's set features a variety of soulful sounds to satisfy both radio listeners as well as those who delve deeper into the obscure. Her love for music includes soul, house/garage, hip-hop, jazz, acid jazz, afro and electronic beats. She has worked a variety of private and commercial events, opening for such artists as Roy Ayers, Kindred The Family Soul and Eric Roberson among others.